From USD 750 per person | 3 Days / 2 Nights | Budget Camping | Starts and Ends in Arusha
Discover Tanzania’s iconic wildlife destinations on our 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari with African Paradise Safari. Starting from Arusha, this budget camping adventure combines game drives in Serengeti National Park with a visit to Ngorongoro Crater, while sharing transport and guiding costs with fellow travellers.
Travel in a shared 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof and explore with a professional English-speaking safari guide. Spend your first night at Seronera Campsite in the Serengeti and your second at Ngorongoro Simba Campsite, with shared campsite bathroom facilities.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive on arrival in the Serengeti, another wildlife drive the following morning and a crater game drive on your final day. This compact itinerary suits solo travellers, couples and friends seeking an affordable safari who are comfortable with early starts, camping and a long road journey on Day 1.
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Safari Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 days / 2 nights |
| Starting price | From USD 750 per person |
| Departure and return point | Arusha, Tanzania |
| Destinations | Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater |
| Safari style | Budget group joining safari |
| Transport | Shared 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof |
| Group size | Maximum 7 travellers per vehicle |
| Safari guide | Professional English-speaking driver-guide |
| Night 1 | Seronera Campsite, Serengeti |
| Night 2 | Ngorongoro Simba Campsite |
| Bathroom facilities | Shared campsite toilets and washing facilities |
| Meals | Day 1: lunch and dinner; Day 2: breakfast, lunch and dinner; Day 3: breakfast and lunch |
| Departure availability | Contact us to confirm a group departure for your preferred date |
| Arrival planning | Arrive in Arusha the day before departure |
Safari Highlights
- Explore the Serengeti: Enjoy an afternoon game drive on Day 1 and a morning game drive on Day 2, looking for wildlife across the plains and around rocky outcrops.
- Descend into Ngorongoro Crater: Explore the crater floor on your final day, with opportunities to encounter wildlife across its varied habitats.
- Camp in two memorable locations: Spend one night at Seronera Campsite and another at Ngorongoro Simba Campsite.
- Share the experience and safari costs: Join fellow travellers in a shared Land Cruiser, making this route accessible for budget-conscious visitors.
- Visit both destinations in three days: Combine the Serengeti and Ngorongoro in one short safari that starts and finishes in Arusha.
Detailed 3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Serengeti National Park — Afternoon Game Drive
After an early pick-up from your agreed meeting point in Arusha, meet your safari guide and fellow travellers before departing for Serengeti National Park.
Travel through northern Tanzania, passing the Lake Manyara area and continuing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The landscape changes from highland scenery to the wide plains of the Serengeti.
Allow approximately 7–8 hours or longer for the journey, including breaks and park entry procedures. Carry a packed lunch to enjoy at a suitable stop along the route.
After entering the Serengeti, enjoy wildlife viewing as you continue towards the Seronera area. Your guide will look for animals across the plains and around rocky outcrops, adjusting the route to the time available and local conditions. The afternoon game drive depends on arrival time.
Continue to Seronera Campsite for dinner and your first night under canvas.
| Daily Details | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Route | Arusha → Ngorongoro Conservation Area → Serengeti |
| Travel time | Approximately 7–8 hours or longer, including stops and entry procedures |
| Main activity | Afternoon game drive, subject to arrival time |
| Accommodation | Seronera Campsite |
| Facilities | Shared campsite toilets and washing facilities |
| Meals | Lunch and dinner |
Day 2: Serengeti Morning Game Drive — Ngorongoro Simba Campsite
Explore the Seronera area and surrounding wildlife habitats with your guide. Watch for animals moving across the plains, grazing near the tracks or resting around the rocky outcrops. Wildlife sightings vary, and your guide will choose a practical route based on conditions.
After the morning game drive and lunch, begin the journey towards Ngorongoro. Enjoy further wildlife viewing while travelling towards the Serengeti exit, then continue through the conservation area.
Allow approximately 3–4 hours for the transfer from the central Serengeti towards Ngorongoro, with additional time for wildlife stops and formalities.
Arrive at Ngorongoro Simba Campsite for dinner and your second night of camping. The highland setting can be cold, so keep warm clothing accessible.
| Daily Details | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Route | Central Serengeti → Ngorongoro |
| Travel time | Approximately 3–4 hours, plus wildlife stops and formalities |
| Main activity | Morning Serengeti game drive followed by an afternoon transfer |
| Accommodation | Ngorongoro Simba Campsite |
| Facilities | Shared campsite toilets and washing facilities |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive — Return to Arusha
After an early breakfast, depart from the campsite and descend into Ngorongoro Crater for your final game drive.
Explore the crater floor’s grasslands, wetlands and woodland with your guide. Look for resident wildlife and birds while learning about the different habitats within this remarkable landscape. Sightings are never guaranteed.
Enjoy your packed lunch at a designated picnic site, depending on the day’s schedule, before ascending from the crater and returning to Arusha.
Allow approximately 4–5 hours for the return journey after leaving the Ngorongoro area. Expect to reach Arusha in the late afternoon or evening, depending on road conditions, traffic and the crater visit.
Your safari ends at the agreed drop-off point in Arusha. If you plan to fly that evening, share your flight details before booking so we can assess the connection.
| Daily Details | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Route | Ngorongoro Simba Campsite → Ngorongoro Crater → Arusha |
| Travel time | Approximately 4–5 hours back to Arusha after leaving the Ngorongoro area |
| Main activity | Ngorongoro Crater game drive |
| Accommodation | Not included after the safari |
| Meals | Breakfast and lunch |
Travel times are estimates. Road conditions, park procedures, wildlife stops and the shared group schedule can affect timings.
Safari Prices and Accommodation Options 2027-2028
Our 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari starts from USD 750 per person for the budget camping option.
This package combines shared safari transport with two nights at public campsites. The accommodation is tented camping with communal facilities.
| Package | Starting Price | Night 1 | Night 2 | Bathroom Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget camping group safari | USD 750 per person | Seronera Campsite | Ngorongoro Simba Campsite | Shared campsite facilities |
Price and Occupancy Arrangements
Request a quotation for your preferred travel date and number of travellers. Your written quotation will state the applicable rate, tent occupancy, included services and any additional charges.
Solo travellers should specify whether they would like to share a tent or request a single tent. Any single-tent supplement will be stated before booking.
Prefer a Lodge or Tented Camp?
If you prefer a room or a permanent tented camp, request a separate accommodation quotation. Availability, pricing and compatibility with the group’s itinerary must be checked before confirmation.
Request Your Travel-Date Quote
What Is Included and Excluded?
Review your written quotation before paying your deposit. It will provide the final list of services covered by your safari price.
Included in the Safari Package
| Included Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Safari transport | Shared 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof |
| Safari guide | Professional English-speaking driver-guide |
| Game drives | Game drives described in the itinerary, subject to arrival times, park access and operating conditions |
| Camping accommodation | One night at Seronera Campsite and one night at Ngorongoro Simba Campsite |
| Safari meals | Day 1: lunch and dinner; Day 2: breakfast, lunch and dinner; Day 3: breakfast and lunch |
Additional Services
| Service | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| International and domestic flights | Book separately unless expressly included in your quotation |
| Airport transfers | Available on request; inclusion or additional cost will be stated in your quotation |
| Arusha accommodation before or after the safari | Available on request and quoted separately |
| Visa and entry authorisation costs | Traveller’s responsibility |
| Personal travel insurance | Arrange separately |
| Guide and crew tips | At your discretion |
| Alcoholic drinks and personal purchases | Payable separately |
| Optional excursions | Included only when expressly listed in your quotation |
Accommodation and Camping Equipment
Enjoy two nights of budget camping on your 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari, staying at Seronera Campsite and Ngorongoro Simba Campsite.
Camping gear is provided, and your tent will already be erected when you arrive at each campsite. After your game drives, settle into camp, enjoy dinner and relax ahead of the following day’s activities.
Where You Will Stay
| Night | Campsite | Sleeping Arrangements | Campsite Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Night 1 | Seronera Campsite, Serengeti | Camping tent, erected before arrival | Shared toilets, hot showers and communal charging points |
| Night 2 | Ngorongoro Simba Campsite | Camping tent, erected before arrival | Shared toilets, hot showers and communal charging points |
Both campsites have shared bathroom facilities rather than private en-suite bathrooms. Hot showers are available, along with designated places to charge phones and camera batteries.
Bring a suitable charging adapter and a power bank for convenience, as charging points are shared with other campers.
Camping Gear and Tent Arrangements
| Item or Service | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Camping gear | Provided for the safari |
| Tent setup | Your tent is erected before you arrive |
| Solo travellers | A single tent is available at no supplement |
| Travellers booking together | Shared-tent arrangements available |
| Personal items | Bring your toiletries, towel, warm clothing and a torch or headlamp |
Nights at Ngorongoro Simba Campsite can be cold, so pack a warm layer for the evening and early morning.
Staying Safely at Camp
Follow your guide’s instructions, keep food securely stored and avoid approaching wildlife. Use a torch after dark and ask the safari crew for assistance whenever needed.
Group Departures and Joining Arrangements
Our 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari departs daily from Arusha, making it easy to fit the trip into your Tanzania travel plans.
There is no minimum booking requirement. Solo travellers can book without a supplement, including a single tent for the two camping nights.
Daily Departures from Arusha
Choose your preferred departure date and contact African Paradise Safari to reserve your place. Booking in advance helps secure your seat and organise your camping arrangements.
| Departure Detail | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Departure frequency | Daily from Arusha |
| Minimum booking | One traveller |
| Solo travellers | Welcome without a supplement |
| Solo accommodation | Single tent at no additional charge |
| Safari transport | Shared 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof |
| Group schedule | Shared game drives, transfers and meal stops |
| Departure time | Early morning; exact pick-up time confirmed before departure |
Joining as a Solo Traveller
You do not need to find a travelling companion to book this safari. Join fellow guests for the journey and game drives, then enjoy your own tent at the campsites without paying a single supplement.
A booking for one traveller remains a group joining safari, with shared transport and activities.
Pick-Up and Return Details
Plan to arrive in Arusha the day before departure. When booking, provide your hotel name and location so we can confirm your pick-up point and collection time.
Be ready at the agreed time to help the group depart promptly for the Serengeti.
The safari finishes in Arusha on Day 3. Send us any onward flight or bus details before booking so we can assess whether your planned connection allows enough time.
Check Daily Availability & Book Your Group Safari
Is This Safari Right for You?
Our 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari suits travellers who want to explore both destinations on a short budget camping trip from Arusha. With daily departures, provided camping gear and no solo supplement, it is a practical option for solo travellers, couples and friends.
A Good Choice If You:
- Have three days available for a safari starting and finishing in Arusha.
- Want a budget camping safari starting from USD 750 per person.
- Enjoy sharing game drives and meeting other travellers.
- Are comfortable sleeping in tents and using shared campsite bathrooms.
- Can manage early starts, uneven roads and long transfers.
Expect a Long First-Day Drive
The journey from Arusha to the Serengeti takes approximately 7–8 hours or longer, including breaks and park entry procedures. Your afternoon game drive depends on arrival time, so Day 1 combines substantial road travel with wildlife viewing.
Day 3 also involves a return journey to Arusha after the Ngorongoro Crater game drive. Share any onward travel plans before booking to allow enough time for your connection.
Understand Your Serengeti Game-Viewing Time
This itinerary includes an afternoon game drive on Day 1 and a morning game drive on Day 2, with further wildlife viewing possible while travelling towards the park exit.
You will not have a full uninterrupted day in the Serengeti. The route focuses on the central safari area rather than distant locations such as the northern migration river crossings.
Who Should Consider a Longer Safari?
Choose a four- or five-day itinerary with additional Serengeti nights if you want more time for wildlife photography, a slower pace or a full day exploring the park.
Families needing frequent breaks and travellers who find long drives tiring may also prefer a longer, carefully paced route. If seeing a particular stage of the Great Migration is your priority, ask us to recommend an itinerary suited to your dates.
Best Time to Visit Serengeti and Ngorongoro
This safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. The best month for you depends on your preferred weather, travel dates and wildlife interests.
| Travel Period | Typical Conditions | What to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| January–February | Often a relatively drier interval within the green season, although rain is possible | Calving activity is generally associated with the southern Serengeti ecosystem and Ndutu. This central Serengeti itinerary does not automatically include a visit to those areas. |
| March–May | Wetter conditions, green landscapes and potentially muddy roads | Allow flexibility for weather and slower journeys. Rain can affect camping comfort and game-drive routes. |
| June–October | Generally drier conditions, with cool mornings and dusty roads | A popular period for safari travel. Book ahead, particularly during peak holiday months. |
| November–December | Short rains may occur, with increasingly green scenery | Wildlife viewing continues, but rainfall and road conditions can influence the daily schedule. |
Will You See the Great Migration?
Great Migration sightings are not guaranteed on this three-day safari. Herd movements depend on rainfall and grazing conditions, and their location changes throughout the year.
The itinerary visits the central Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. It is not a dedicated Ndutu calving safari or northern Serengeti river-crossing safari.
If the migration is your main reason for travelling, tell us your dates before booking. We can advise whether this route suits your interests or whether you need more days and a different overnight location.
Safari Guide and Expert Insights
Your Safari Guide
Your 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari is led by a professional English-speaking driver-guide in a shared 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof.
Your guide coordinates game drives, explains wildlife behaviour and selects viewing routes according to animal activity, road conditions and the group’s schedule. Ask questions throughout the journey—understanding the animals and their habitats adds depth to every sighting.
Expert Insights from John Peter — Safari Planner
Make the most of the early departure.
Arrive in Arusha the day before your safari and be ready at the confirmed pick-up time. The first day involves a long drive, so a prompt start helps protect your afternoon wildlife-viewing time.
Choose this itinerary for its two-destination experience.
This safari combines a short Serengeti visit with a Ngorongoro Crater game drive. If your priority is a full day exploring the Serengeti, choose a longer itinerary with additional nights inside the park.
Look beyond the Big Five.
Spend time observing animal behaviour, birds and the changing landscape. A rewarding game drive may involve watching a herd interact rather than moving quickly between sightings.
Prepare for two different camping environments.
Pack light clothing for daytime game drives and warm layers for Ngorongoro’s cooler evenings. Keep a headlamp, toiletries and your overnight essentials easy to reach.
Charge equipment whenever you have the opportunity.
Both campsites have communal charging points. Bring a suitable adapter, spare camera batteries and a power bank so you can share the facilities comfortably with other campers.
Match migration expectations to your route.
This itinerary focuses on the central Serengeti. Tell us before booking if Ndutu calving or northern Serengeti river crossings are your main interest, as those experiences require a route suited to the season.
Why Book With African Paradise Safari?
1. An Affordable Two-Destination Safari
Visit the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in one trip, with budget camping prices starting from USD 750 per person. Sharing the vehicle and guide helps make the experience accessible to travellers watching their budget.
2. Daily Departures from Arusha
Fit your safari into your holiday with daily departures. You can book as one traveller without having to organise your own group.
3. No Solo Supplement
Solo travellers can join without an additional supplement and have a single tent at no extra charge. Share the game drives while retaining your own sleeping space at camp.
4. Camping Gear and Tent Setup Provided
Your camping gear is provided, and your tent will be erected before you arrive. Spend your time enjoying the safari rather than setting up camp after a long day.
5. Campsites With Practical Facilities
Stay at Seronera Campsite and Ngorongoro Simba Campsite, with shared toilets, hot showers and communal charging points for phones and camera batteries.
6. Shared 4×4 Safari Experience
Travel in a safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, accompanied by an English-speaking driver-guide. Follow a coordinated itinerary with fellow travellers exploring the same destinations.
7. Clear Advice Before You Book
Discuss your dates, camping preferences and onward travel plans with African Paradise Safari before confirming. We will help you understand the route, driving time and accommodation so you can choose a safari that fits your holiday.
Ready to join? Send us your preferred departure date and number of travellers to check availability for your 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Group Safari.
Traveller Reviews of African Paradise Safaris
1. Danimal2007 — Kenya–Tanzania Budget Joining Safari
Review posted: 17 January 2023
Reported responsive communication, professional safari operators in both countries and good value on an 11-day budget joining safari. Described the overall experience as organised and enjoyable. tripadvisor.co.uk
2. Eliza S — Tanzania Group and Private Safari
Review posted: 8 January 2021
Praised communication during booking and assistance from guide Godfray in Arusha. Combined group departures with private tours and enjoyed Tanzania’s wildlife and scenery. tripadvisor.co.uk
3. thomas n — Kenya–Tanzania Safari
Review posted: 3 July 2021
Visited the Serengeti and Ngorongoro during a longer safari. Highlighted John Peter’s communication and flexibility, alongside attentive guiding and support during cross-border travel. tripadvisor.co.uk
4. Hong J — Kenya–Tanzania Safari With Friends
Review posted: 21 September 2024
Travelled with eight friends and praised patient planning and guide Ken’s wildlife-viewing skills. Reported migration river crossings in the Maasai Mara and Serengeti on their itinerary. tripadvisor.com
5. Jian L — Kenya–Tanzania Wildlife Joining Tour
Review posted: 12 September 2026
Highlighted efficient communication, skilful driving and memorable accommodation on a longer East African safari. Reported seeing the Big Five and the migration during that trip. tripadvisor.co.uk
6. William R — Solo Safari Experience
Review posted: 28 September 2023
Praised the driver, wildlife variety and value for money. Also noted substantial driving time—a useful consideration for travellers choosing a short road safari. tripadvisor.co.uk
Read traveller reviews on Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far in advance should I book this safari?
Book as soon as your travel dates are confirmed, particularly during popular holiday periods. Daily departures give you flexibility, but reserving ahead helps secure your preferred date. For last-minute bookings, contact us to check available seats.
2. Can I join this safari from Zanzibar?
Yes, you can arrange flights from Zanzibar to mainland Tanzania and join the safari in Arusha. Plan to arrive the day before departure. Send us your flight details so we can help coordinate airport transfers and any overnight accommodation, quoted separately.
3. Can you cater for vegetarian meals or food allergies?
Tell us about vegetarian preferences, allergies or other dietary requirements when enquiring. We will check the arrangements with the safari team before confirming. For severe allergies, discuss your needs with us before paying your deposit.
4. How much luggage should I bring?
Pack a compact, soft-sided bag because luggage space is shared with other guests and safari equipment. Keep your camera, medication and valuables in a small day bag. If you have a large suitcase, ask about storage arrangements in Arusha before departure.
5. Is this group safari suitable for children?
Families can enquire, but parents should consider the long first-day drive, early starts, shared vehicle schedule and campsite facilities. Send us your children’s ages so we can advise on suitability, sleeping arrangements and the applicable quotation.
6. Can I change the route or add activities?
The group follows a coordinated itinerary, so individual route changes cannot always be accommodated. Request additional activities before booking so we can check whether they fit the schedule. For greater flexibility, consider a private safari.
7. What happens if I need to cancel or change my booking?
Contact African Paradise Safari as soon as your plans change. Date changes depend on availability, and any charges or refunds follow the cancellation conditions supplied with your booking. Read these terms before paying your deposit.
8. Do I need to bring cash on safari?
Bring some cash for personal purchases, optional activities and tips. Do not rely on finding an ATM at the campsites. Your quotation will identify included services so you can budget for additional expenses.
Related Tanzania Group Safaris
Compare these alternatives if you would like an additional destination, a longer safari or a route that avoids the long journey to the Serengeti.
4 Days Tanzania Affordable Group Safari
Combine Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater on a four-day group itinerary. This option suits travellers who want to add Tarangire to their northern Tanzania safari.
Explore the 4 Days Tanzania Group Safari
5 Days Tanzania Budget Group Safari
Allow five days for your Tanzania camping adventure. Ask us for the detailed route, overnight arrangements and Serengeti game-drive time so you can compare this longer option with the three-day safari.
Ask About Our 5 Days Tanzania Budget Group Safari
3 Days Tarangire & Ngorongoro Group Safari
Choose Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater if you prefer a short safari without travelling as far as the Serengeti. This alternative suits travellers who want to explore two destinations closer to Arusha.
Explore the 3-Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro Group Safari
Check Availability and Book Your Safari
Explore the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with African Paradise Safari on this 3-day budget camping group safari from USD 750 per person.
Enjoy daily departures from Arusha, shared Land Cruiser game drives and two nights at Seronera Campsite and Ngorongoro Simba Campsite. Camping gear is provided, your tent is erected before arrival, and solo travellers can book without a supplement.
Send Us Your Booking Details
To check availability and receive your quotation, please provide:
- Preferred departure date
- Number of adults and children, including children’s ages
- Tent preference: single tent or sharing with your travelling companion
- Arusha hotel or arrival details
- Dietary requirements or allergies
- Onward travel details, particularly flights after the safari
We will confirm availability, your total price, included services, pick-up arrangements and payment instructions before you book.
Payment and Cancellation
A 30% deposit secures your booking, with a further 30% due 21 days before departure and the remaining 40% payable on arrival before the safari begins. For bookings made within 21 days of departure, a 40% deposit applies, with the balance payable before departure. Credit card payments attract a 3.8% surcharge.
Cancellations received 30 days or more before departure qualify for a deposit refund, less applicable charges. For cancellations received fewer than 30 days before departure, the deposit is retained as credit towards a future booking within 12 months. The full conditions supplied with your quotation explain applicable charges and amendment arrangements.
Check Availability & Request Your Booking Quote
Author and Editorial Review
John Peter — Safari Planner and Tour Operator
John Peter is the CEO of African Paradise Safaris. His work includes planning Kenya and Tanzania safari itineraries, coordinating accommodation and transport, and helping travellers select routes suited to their dates, interests and budgets.
For this three-day Serengeti and Ngorongoro group safari, John Peter is your contact for departure availability, camping arrangements and booking enquiries.
Page updated: 22 October 2026
